The Exeter has reported that usage of its member benefits app HealthWise has already surpassed full-year 2022 totals.

Developed in partnership with Square Health, the HealthWise app allows members of the protection and health insurer to access remote GP services, second medical opinions, physiotherapy, mental health support, dietitian consultations and lifestyle and nutrition appointments, free of charge.

Data collected by the Exeter on member use of the app in 2023 has shown demand is greater than during the height of the pandemic. In July 2023, usage levels were almost three times higher than July 2022.

Uptake of the service is being driven by a greater demand for remote GP appointments, however an increasing number of members are also accessing mental health and physiotherapy sessions.

The increase in use of HealthWise is split evenly between genders but can be largely attributed to the Exeter’s health insurance members (as compared to holders of other forms of cover), who make up 72% of all users this year.

Steve Bryan, director of distribution and marketing at the Exeter, said: “Since introducing HealthWise we have seen a year-on-year increase in service usage, however the demand in the first half of 2023 is unprecedented.

“Whilst the increase in usage has predominantly been driven by members accessing remote GP appointments for reasons including children’s health conditions, skin complaints and digestive disorders, we are also seeing record demand across all other services.

“We are all aware of the pressures placed on public health services at present, so providing members with the added peace of mind that they can access alternative support for free is hugely important in helping them manage their health and preventing symptoms from worsening.”

Steve Casey, marketing director at Square Health, added: “Working with our long-term strategic partner, we are delighted that the provision of Square Health’s services via the HealthWise app are adding true value to the Exeter’s members and their families.

“Continued uptake across the range of healthcare services demonstrates the importance members place on timely and convenient access to healthcare professionals.”